Image courtesy of Nayara Springs
Want to stay somewhere tropical and luxurious? The coolest boutique hotels in Costa Rica feature sophisticated accommodations amid some of the most verdant jungles and vibrant coastlines in the Americas.
Ready to travel today? Book your trip with Fora and receive VIP hotel perks and upgrades at no extra cost. In the meantime, read on to discover some of the best boutique hotels in Costa Rica.
Are there great boutique hotels in Costa Rica?
Absolutely. But it’s also fair to say many of the best hotels in Costa Rica have more of a boutique style. That is, these are exceptionally classy resorts with trendy designs, an intimate feel and attentive service, but they might host dozens or more guests at a time, which might clash with the strictest definition of what a Costa Rica boutique hotel is.
In any case, we’ve taken special care to highlight which hotels below are true boutiques and which lean toward being boutique-style hotels.
What’s the best side of Costa Rica to stay on? Pacific or Caribbean?
There’s not necessarily a “best side of Costa Rica to stay,” but there are differences between Costa Rica’s Pacific coast and its Caribbean coast.
Both coasts feature stunning beaches, dense jungles and abundant wildlife, but the Pacific coast is a little more electric. It’s probably the better choice if you’re searching for the best nightlife in Costa Rica (maybe for a Costa Rica bachelorette party), and there are more opportunities for adventure.
The Caribbean coast, on the other hand, is much more laid back, with an inherently bohemian atmosphere (check out the best Costa Rica Caribbean resorts).
Neither coast is better than the other. Rather, they appeal to different vacation styles — and when you connect with Fora, we’ll make sure you visit the coast that best fits your vision.
The 8 coolest boutique hotels in Costa Rica
Image courtesy of Kura Boutique Hotel
Read on to check out some of our favorite boutique hotels in Costa Rica. Then, connect with Fora to plan and book your trip (and unlock VIP hotel perks, of course).
1. Kura Boutique Hotel: one of Costa Rica’s most luxurious adults-only hotels
Image courtesy of Kura Boutique Hotel
Kura is the definition of a Costa Rican boutique hotel.
This intimate, eight-suite hotel employs a swanky “tropical minimalist” style that caters to the discerning traveler. Each spacious suite is a masterclass in contemporary design, yet still pays homage to its locale. Kura’s exclusive hilltop setting also ensures privacy while panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and Pacific Ocean offer an escape into nature.
Among Kura’s other offerings: a saltwater infinity pool overlooking the Pacific, complimentary shuttles to the beach, an emphasis on sustainability…
Craving more adults-only bliss? Check out a Virgin Voyages adults-only cruise.
Fora Perks at Kura Boutique Hotel:
Complimentary meal for two.
Complimentary 20-minute poolside massage.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
2. Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas: a luxe boutique hotel on Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Coast
Image courtesy of Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas
Casa Chameleon epitomizes Costa Rica’s pura vida way of life; relaxation and positivity are celebrated here.
It’s fair to say that Casa Chameleon bends the rules of what qualifies as a boutique hotel in Costa Rica, with its open-air setting and 21 private villas. However, each villa has a homey feel with subtle touches of luxury, like an attached saltwater plunge pool, a private terrace, fine linens and more.
Fora Perks at Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas:
Food / beverage credit.
Welcome amenities.
Upgrade whenever possible.
3. El Silencio Lodge & Spa: a mysterious resort within Costa Rica’s cloud forest
Image courtesy of El Silencio Lodge & Spa
Found amidst the cloud forest within Costa Rica’s central volcanic valley, El Silencio Lodge & Spa offers an alluring mix of adventure and tranquility. The location provides an ethereal escape into nature, yet El Silencio Lodge is only about an hour’s drive from San Juan, Costa Rica’s largest city and its capital.
There’s much to do here for every type of traveler. You’re free to lounge amongst the sounds of nature or engage in more rigorous activities, like hiking through dense jungle to the nearby waterfalls, horseback riding and more.
Fora Perks at El Silencio Lodge & Spa:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
4. Nayara Springs: an elegant resort beneath Arenal Volcano
Image courtesy of Nayara Springs
One of the best places to stay in Costa Rica for couples, Nayara Springs blends cultural immersion with luxurious accommodations.
Found within the shadow of Arenal Volcano, one of the coolest landmarks in Costa Rica, Nayara Springs flirts with the line of what’s considered a true Costa Rican boutique hotel. Nayara Springs features 35 spacious, private villas spread out across the resort grounds, which are also home to an impressive wellness center, multiple farm-to-table restaurants and a coffee bar that features an exclusive roast made on property.
Still, despite the resort's size, the hallmarks of a classic boutique hotel are evident here. Each private villa is designed for luxury without sacrificing intimacy or character.
Fora Perks at Nayara Springs:
$100 food / beverage credit.
Breakfast daily.
Extended check-in/out whenever possible.
5. Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort: a five-star hotel near Manuel Antonio National Park
Image courtesy of Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
The only luxe resort near Manuel Antonio National Park — easily one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica for its natural beauty and mystique — Arena del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort provides exclusive access to one of the country’s most coveted beaches, along with a bevy of five-star luxuries.
The best feature of this clifftop boutique hotel may be its location. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, which is barely a minute’s walk away, or trek deep into Manuel Antonio, one of the most biodiverse places in the world.
Fora Perks at Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Welcome note & amenity.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
6. Rancho Pacifico: a sophisticated Costa Rican boutique lodge
Rancho Pacifico doesn’t lack options. Here, guests can enjoy contemporary suites with ocean views or choose from a selection of private villas, including elegant tree houses and luxurious cliff-top villas.
One of the more discerning boutique hotels in Costa Rica, you’ll still find tropical influences throughout the property, but the overall design leans contemporary and trendy. Connect with Fora to learn more about this award-winning, adults-only hotel.
Fora Perks at Rancho Pacifico:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Welcome amenity.
Upgrade & extended check-out whenever possible.
7. Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo: an adventurous, beachfront boutique-style hotel
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
The Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo lives up to the brand’s exceptional reputation with elite, boutique-style accommodations, excellent service and a range of exciting experiences. You can enjoy surfing lessons on the resort’s beach, aerial park tours, coral planting off the coast, a guided road trip around the Nicoya Peninsula and more
As one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for families, the Four Seasons is perfect for adults and children alike, as well as group trips like bachelorette parties. And because Fora is a member of the invitation-only Four Seasons Preferred, when you book with us, you’ll unlock VIP status and top-tier perks.
Fora Perks:
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
8. Lapa Rios Lodge: a world-class jungle resort on the Osa Peninsula
Image courtesy of Lapa Rios Lodge
One of the coolest Costa Rica jungle resorts, Lapa Rios Lodge sits at the tip of the Osa Peninsula on 1,000 acres of protected lowland rainforest. The surrounding preserve is abundant with wildlife and jungle scenery, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to leave the confines of urban living.
Better described as a boutique-style Costa Rica hotel, Lapa Rios Lodge’s immersive experience feels primal, yet never compromises on luxury. Plan your trip with Fora for the full lowdown on Lapa Rios Lodge.
Plan your stay at the best boutique hotels in Costa Rica with Fora
Image courtesy of Lapa Rios Lodge
Connect with Fora to plan and book your getaway today. Stay at the best boutique hotels in Costa Rica and you’ll get access to VIP perks and hotel upgrades at no extra cost.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our guides to a Costa Rica girls’ trip and the best places to visit in Costa Rica for the first time.
Not sure Costa Rica is the right destination for you? Also check out some of our favorite boutique hotels in New Orleans or Denver.
Wherever you decide to visit, plan your trip with Fora to unlock exciting perks and upgrades — at no extra cost.